Three weeks and thriving

Three weeks is when everything shifts. Almost overnight, the puppies go from being fairly quiet to having opinions about absolutely everything. Their legs start working properly, their voices get louder, and the whelping box suddenly feels far too small for their new sense of confidence.

This is the week they really start interacting with each other. There is the beginning of play, tiny growls, clumsy attempts at wrestling, and a lot of climbing over siblings instead of walking around them. It is chaotic, but in the best possible way.

This week also marks the end of Early Neurological Stimulation and Early Scent Introduction. From here, the focus moves into Puppy Culture foundations. The puppies are more aware of their surroundings now, and that opens the door to gentle challenges that build confidence and resilience without overwhelming them.

A few important changes happened in their setup this week.

I introduced a sleep nest, something enclosed and cosy that gives them a sense of security. They took to it immediately. Watching them all pile in together and fall asleep in a heap is one of those moments that makes the hard work feel worth it.

I also set up a designated toilet area within their pen. Once again, they surprised me. Within a very short space of time, they were toddling over and using it rather than just going wherever they happened to be standing. German Shepherds are naturally clean, and seeing that instinct kick in this early never gets old. This early structure makes a huge difference later on for their new families.

Their environment is expanding now. They have more room, more things to explore, and more interaction with each other. The noise level has gone up significantly, and so has the entertainment value.

Three weeks is busy, messy, and exhausting. It is also the point where they truly start becoming puppies rather than newborns. Personalities are developing quickly, and it feels like every day brings something new.